Buyer Beware - 02/27/09 07:09 PM
With the economy in the tank and many retailers unable to remain solvent, liquidation sales seem to have become the rage. And in these times when we’re all short of cash, such sales may be just the ticket for buying the things we need while saving loads of money.
 
Well, before you grab the car keys to search for bargains at the latest business failure, keep in mind the following:
 
• Liquidation sales are generally run by outside companies whose prime focus is helping failing retailers reap as many dollars as possible from closeout sales, and they often do … (2 comments)

What Every Home Seller Should Know About Today's Market - 02/22/09 04:03 PM
The first reaction most sellers have to today’s market is disbelief at how much their home has declined in value in the past year, and their next reaction is usually to try to justify why their home is worth more than their neighbors. And the good news is: It may be. However, it’s not because of any emotional value; homes are worth more because they show better, have better features, more living space, upgrades, etc.
 
Pricing a home beyond its value severely delays its sale and creates future problems; homes that have been on the market for months, or in … (3 comments)

Frugal Living Info on The Housing Guru - 02/17/09 02:36 PM
The Housing Guru has just added a new section entitled, "Frugal Living" to its website, www.thehousingguru.com. The new section provides information on saving money when remodeling, green living, how to save on energy costs, and several easy do-it-yourself projects. 
 
Check out this new section; and if it has been a while since you last visited, we have added other useful information for those interested in buying, selling, building, or remodeling.  Also, watch for our new "Home Repair" and "How To" sections, coming soon. 
 
The Housing Guru is committed to providing timely and useful information for home owners, home buyers … (2 comments)

How to Improve Customer Service from your Builder - 02/17/09 02:07 PM
Most of those who have owned new homes have, at some time, been frustrated by a lack of service from their builder. In most cases the problems either arise from a breakdown in communication or understaffing problems. Builders generally want their customers to be happy with their purchase; it’s in their best interest. However, it’s sometimes easy for a builder to overlook what may seem a trivial problem, especially if he/she is burdened by a busy construction schedule or closing deadlines.
 
How do you get your builder to respond to your needs? Generally it’s pretty easy, and only involves keeping … (5 comments)

What's In The Stimulus Bill For Housing? - 02/14/09 12:52 PM
The government stimulus plan passed on February 13th created an $8,000 tax credit for first-time home buyers, but does the bill really limit the credit to those who have never owned a home? No. Under the stipulations of the bill, first-time buyers are defined as those who have not owned a home within the past three years. Those with questions about their eligibility should consult a real estate or tax professional.
 
The good news for home buyers is that, unlike some government programs, this one is quite simple. Tax payers who purchase a home between January 1, 2009 and December … (6 comments)

10 Rules for Successful Remodeling - 02/06/09 02:27 PM
1. Have a plan. While I’m not necessarily referring to architectural drawings, if your job is complex, hiring an architect may be necessary. Regardless of how large your project may be, you should have a list of what you want, exactly what you want changed, and what you expect your project to look like when completed.
 
2. Hire a professional. If the scope of your project is significant, $25, 000 or more, you probably need the services of a true professional. While Joe the handyman may be able to do a kitchen or bath upgrade, if your project is complex, … (3 comments)

Stop the Energy Thieves - 02/05/09 01:52 PM
Air infiltration is the single highest cause of energy loss in homes, and stopping the leaks is an inexpensive way to reap huge savings. A day or two spent caulking, weather-stripping, crack sealing, and insulating will make a home more comfortable and energy efficient.
 
Caulk around windows and doors, at siding joints, where different materials meet, and any other places where you think infiltration might be a problem. In colder regions, homeowners sometimes apply vinyl sheeting over windows to reduce the chance of air entering; these can either be applied on the interior or exterior.
 
Doors can be weather-stripped … (2 comments)

25 Money Saving Tips for the Home - 02/05/09 01:17 PM
The following money savings tips are part of an upcoming section for TheHousingGuru.com, called Frugal Living. While some may seem obvious and perhaps a bit mundane, many are overlooked and yet can cumulatively save thousands of dollars a year for the average homeowner.
 
1. Install a programmable thermostat.
2. Use “Smart Power Strips” to turn off power to electronics when not in use.
3. Turn off lights when you leave a room.
4. Install surge protectors on all electronics.
5. Install CFLs or LEDs wherever possible.
6. Buy only EnergyStar® appliances.
7. Change furnace filters at least every 90 … (4 comments)

 

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